Best Dog Breeds for Beginners

You're ready for the responsibility and excited to have a furry friend. But what kind of dog is best for a first-time owner?

- by SARAH VINCENT

As veterinarians (and pet owners) will tell you, every dog is unique. Some pups are loyal guardians, while others are supersmart companions or will always make you laugh. Some dogs are ideal hiking buddies, while others love to explore nothing more than the couch. Some need more frequent grooming or are more prone to certain diseases. The right breed will be different for everyone, depending on lifestyle and preferences, so consider carefully. But here's one nonnegotiable for first-time dog owners, according to Sarah Cortright, D.V.M.: Don't get a puppy. They're adorable, but the amount of vet care, training and patience required can be overwhelming. "Getting a puppy is a huge commitment," Cortright says. "It's like having an infant." Instead, look for a dog between 1 and 5 years old, and consider the types on the next page, many of which tend to be easygoing and family-friendly.

Mixed breed